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Inland Tugboat Jobs (NOW HIRING)

McLean Contracting Company

Tugboat Captain

Santee, SC · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

McLean Contracting Company is seeking an experienced Tugboat Captain to join our team for an ... less on Inland waters required; 200 GRT Master of Towing license or greater preferred, and ...

Orion Marine Group

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Practices the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways. * Uses radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships,tugboats, etc. * Performs daily ...

TAS Concrete

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Practices the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways. * Uses radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships,tugboats, etc. * Performs daily ...

ORION

Boat Captain

Mobile, AL · On-site

Practices the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways. * Uses radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships, tugboats, etc. * Performs daily ...

Orion Group Holdings, Inc.

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Practices the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways. * Uses radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships,tugboats, etc. * Performs daily ...

Schneider

Boat Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

Practices the "Rules of the Road" for operating vessels on inland waterways. * Uses radio equipment on the tugboat to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, ships,tugboats, etc. * Performs daily ...

CNIC Careers

MOTOR VESSEL CAPTAIN

Everett, WA · On-site

$35.90/hr

... tugboat alongside vessels to assist in berthing; 2) Supervising the deck crew in the operation and ... Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Mate of Towing Vessels-Inland with ...

360 Industrial Services

Structural Welder

Paducah, KY · On-site

$24/hr

... tugboat repair facility in Paducah, Kentucky. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience welding with 3/16" E6010 electrodes and performing structural repairs on inland river vessels ...

Dann Marine Towing

AB Tankerman

$1.3K - $1.8K/wk

Is, a sixth-generation family owned and operated tugboat company, managing a fleet of 24 ocean going tugboats and inland push boats. Our vessels range in horsepower from 1100 H.P. to 6200 H.P. The ...

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Inland Tugboat information

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How much do inland tugboat jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for inland tugboat in the United States is $31.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.77 and $34.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an inland tugboat?

An Inland Tugboat job involves operating and maneuvering tugboats on rivers, lakes, and other inland waterways to move barges and other vessels. Crew members typically handle navigation, towing operations, vessel maintenance, and ensure compliance with maritime safety regulations. These positions require teamwork, physical endurance, and knowledge of waterway systems. Depending on the role, licensing from the U.S. Coast Guard may be necessary.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an inland tugboat position?

To excel as an Inland Tugboat operator, you need strong boat handling skills, a solid understanding of navigation rules, and usually a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with the appropriate endorsements. Familiarity with marine radios, GPS navigation, and safety systems is essential, as is compliance with Coast Guard regulations. Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and situational awareness help you respond to changing river or harbor conditions and work efficiently with crew members. These skills ensure safe vessel operation, effective coordination, and adaptability in dynamic inland waterway environments.

What are the typical working conditions for someone in an inland tugboat position?

Inland Tugboat operators often work in shifts that can extend for several days, alternating between time on the water and periods off duty, depending on the company and assignments. The job involves working in all types of weather, frequently requiring tasks both inside the wheelhouse and outdoors on deck, handling lines or securing barges. You’ll typically be part of a small, close-knit crew, so strong communication and collaboration are essential for safety and efficiency. While the work can be physically demanding and require long hours, many find it rewarding due to the unique work environment and the camaraderie of the crew. These positions often provide opportunities for advancement into roles with greater navigational responsibility or supervisory duties.

How much money do you make working on an inland tugboat?

Inland tugboat operators typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Overtime, certifications, and union membership can also influence earnings.

How to get hired on an inland tugboat?

To get hired as an inland tugboat crew member, candidates typically need a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), relevant maritime certifications, and experience operating tugboats or similar vessels. Applying through maritime companies, demonstrating safety knowledge, and completing on-the-job training are common steps in the hiring process.
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Inland Tugboat jobs near you
Infographic showing various Inland Tugboat job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,667 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Tugboat Captain

McLean Contracting Company

Santee, SC • On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

McLean Contracting Company is seeking an experienced Tugboat Captain to join our team for an exciting joint venture project with Balfour Beatty in Santee, SC.

Preferred candidates will have 5+ years of relative experience, with Master of Self-Propelled vessels 25GRT or less on Inland waters required; 200 GRT Master of Towing license or greater preferred, and experience running truckable tugs.


Essential Duties

Safely operates vessels

Possesses the skills necessary to maintain control of the vessel while backing up, turning corners and negotiating narrow passageways, etc.

Substantive knowledge of the U. S. Coast Guard “Rules of the Road” and perform the duties in accordance with those rules and regulations.

Ensures that loads are property distributed, secured and within maximum height, width and weight limitations.

Ensures that the barge (tow) is in trim and safe to move.

Maintains daily logs, file reports as required by government regulations, perform regular maintenance and inspection of vessel, and reports all incidents.

Performs or assists mechanics in repair.

Has thorough knowledge of the safe and proper methods for towing and mooring other vessels.

Reads and understands charts, radar, GPS, compasses and other navigational devices.


Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years old, have reliable transportation to work and be able to pass a Marine/Coast Guard physical/drug screen/background check.
  • Must have Master of self-propelled vessels 25GRT or less on Inland waters; 200GRT Master of Towing license or greater preferred, and experience running truckable tugs.
  • Radar observer, valid medical card, and Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)
  • High school diploma/GED/Trade School preferred
  • Ability to pass physical screenings


This is not a complete job description; one will be provided to qualified candidates who apply.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


EOE/M/F/Disability/Vets


Pay: $40 - $45/h


Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance


Apply